Pasig Catholic College-KUMBENTO

 

On March 19, 1976, the bullet-riddled body of Emmanuel "Eman" Lacaba was dragged to the ground and hurled into a military vehicle. It was later positively identified—he was a poet, a warrior, and an exemplary young man who had spent a good part of his life "sa Kumbento."

But who was Emmanuel Lacaba? And what is "Kumbento"?

For many Pasigueños, the word "Kumbento" evokes deep fondness, pride, respect, and honor. It is more than just a term; it is an endearment, a hallowed institution where many young boys—and later, young girls—spent their formative years in education. Founded in 1913 by CICM missionaries, it began as a parochial school known as Escuela Católica, catering primarily to the education of underprivileged Pasigueño children. It later became Pasig Catholic School before evolving into a tertiary institution now known as Pasig Catholic College (PCC).

The term "Kumbento" carries historical significance, as it originally referred to the very building where the school first stood—the convent that housed the priests and parochial offices. In its early years, "Kumbento" was an exclusive school for boys, but at the turn of the century, Pasig Catholic College became a coeducational institution. Over the years, it has produced some of the finest individuals: a National Artist for Music, outstanding public servants, men of faith, business leaders, innovators in science and technology, athletes, and artists across various fields. Yet beyond these renowned figures, there are countless nameless alumni who have lived honorable lives, embodying the values they learned in their youth—values nurtured in the hallowed grounds of Kumbento. One of these values is the spirit of selfless service to the nation.

Eman Lacaba was a "Kumbento Boy." A student leader and an outstanding scholar, he wielded his pen to search for truth and meaning in life. During the tumultuous years leading up to Martial Law, many young people took to the streets to protest the rampant corruption of those in power. Lacaba joined the underground movement, becoming its literary voice—writing prose and poetry that articulated the struggles of the oppressed. No matter how brutal, inhumane, and unjust the world around him became, the beauty and truth of his poetry remained unshaken. He gave the best years of his life—his youthful years—in service to his poor and unrepresented countrymen.

Now, we are confronted with a disturbing reality: an individual dares to invoke the word "Kumbento" to attack a political rival. He utters it as though it were a magical incantation, twisting its meaning to justify his crooked advocacy. His words—laced with hatred, prejudice, and a growing sense of megalomania—eventually descend into sexism and misogyny, distorting the true essence of Kumbento. He may have come from the institution, but he is not—and will never be—one of its prides.

This is to the many children of Kumbento, the likes of an Eman Lacaba --Mga Batang Kumbento who have offered their time and talent in pursuit of truth, justice, and the values of being true Filipinos for the good of the community, those who continue to live honorable lives even in silence-- Patuloy na Namumuhay ng Marangal sa Gitna ng mga Kabaluktutan sa Lipunan.

We are... Kumbento!

Pasig City April 4 2025